New York State Police raise maximum age for trooper candidates

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By Priya Shahi

Staten Island Advance, N.Y.

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Governor Kathy Hochul approved a request from the New York State Police to raise the maximum age for trooper applicants from 29 to 34, she announced last week.

This requirement change reinforces Governor Hochul’s commitment to expanding the New York State Police force. Earlier this year, Hochul announced more than $66 million in the budget to fund additional New York State Police Academy classes and increase the number of New York State troopers.

“Public safety is my top priority, and the State Police are the tip of the spear in our efforts to combat gun violence and keep New Yorkers safe. By raising the maximum age of new recruits, we are widening the pool of people who can help us with this incredibly important work. After doubling the number of graduating classes from the New York State Police Academy starting next year, this new rule will help the state recruit more troopers and protect the people of New York,” said Hochul.

Under the Governor’s plan, there will be two additional classes scheduled each year allowing for four unprecedented classes annually. This aims to accelerate the rebuilding of the force and expand the number of troopers dedicated to addressing violent crimes and quality of life issues by targeting the removal of illegal guns from the streets and combating the flow of drugs within some of the state’s most vulnerable neighborhoods.

“This change will allow us to recruit the most diverse and skilled group of candidates possible. There are many qualified candidates from the military or other careers who decide that they want to transition to the State Police, but because of the previous age requirement, some were not eligible,” Steven A. Nigrelli, acting New York State Police superintendent, said. “These are individuals that have a wealth of knowledge and experience to bring to the job.”

The redesigned recruitment program aims to reach more potential female and minority candidates. This includes actively meeting and engaging with leaders from underrepresented communities within law enforcement to establish positive, long-term connections. The State Police has also taken the 30X30 pledge and is committed to increasing female recruits to 30% by the year 2030.

Entrance exams for Troopers

The next Trooper Entrance exam will be held simultaneously with the application process from July 2023 through September 2023, and will be administered online at authorized testing centers to make the exam more accessible.

Individuals will be able to apply beginning July 1, and can schedule a time to take the exam as early as July 10.

Candidates can learn about becoming a New York State Trooper and sign up to take the exam at joinstatepolice.ny.gov.